Contents
Introduction
Military tanks have been around for centuries, but their development has changed dramatically over the years. Once crudely constructed, military tanks are now sophisticated weapons of war, capable of taking on a variety of tasks. There are a number of different types of tanks, each designed for a specific purpose. Here, we take a look at some of the most common types of military tanks in use today.
Main Battle Tank
The most common type of military tank is the Main Battle Tank (MBT). MBTs are heavily armoured and armed with a variety of weapons, such as cannons, machine guns, and guided missiles. MBTs are designed to be used in a direct assault against enemy forces and are typically the backbone of any modern army. Examples of MBTs include the U.S. Army’s M1A2 Abrams, the Russian T-90, and the British Challenger 2.
Light Tank
Light tanks are smaller and lighter than MBTs, and are typically used for reconnaissance and scouting missions. Light tanks are highly mobile and can traverse difficult terrain, making them ideal for scouting out enemy positions and gathering intelligence. Examples of light tanks include the U.S. Army’s M3 Bradley and the British FV101 Scorpion.
Armoured Personnel Carrier
Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) are designed to transport troops across the battlefield. APCs are heavily armoured and armed with a variety of weapons, such as machine guns and grenade launchers. They are usually outfitted with additional features such as smoke grenade launchers, night vision equipment, and communications equipment.
Armoured Fighting Vehicle
Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) are designed to engage enemy forces in close combat. AFVs are heavily armoured and armed with a variety of weapons, such as cannons, machine guns, and guided missiles. AFVs are typically used to support MBTs and can be used for a variety of tasks, such as providing fire support and suppressing enemy forces.
Self-Propelled Artillery
Self-Propelled Artillery (SP Artillery) are designed to provide fire support for ground forces. SP Artillery is typically mounted on a tracked vehicle, such as a tank or APC, and is armed with a variety of weapons, such as cannons, mortars, and rocket launchers. SP Artillery is typically used to engage enemy forces at a distance.
Armoured Recovery Vehicle
Armoured Recovery Vehicles (ARVs) are designed to recover damaged or disabled military vehicles. ARVs are heavily armoured and typically outfitted with a variety of tools and equipment, such as winches, cranes, and other lifting equipment, as well as a variety of tools and supplies. ARVs are also typically armed with a variety of weapons, such as machine guns and grenade launchers.
Infantry Fighting Vehicle
Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) are designed to transport infantry across the battlefield. IFVs are heavily armoured and typically armed with a variety of weapons, such as machine guns and grenade launchers. They are typically outfitted with additional features such as smoke grenade launchers, night vision equipment, and communications equipment.
Conclusion
Military tanks are an important part of any modern army, and there are a number of different types of tanks, each designed for a specific purpose. From Main Battle Tanks to Light Tanks and Armoured Personnel Carriers, each type of tank has its own unique set of capabilities and is an essential part of any military force.